Donna Carter 04/13/2026

Donna, age 92, a woman who truly loved life and embraced every moment, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 13, 2026 surrounded by family at her home in Sun Lakes, AZ.
She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, a vibrant spirit, full of love and laughter for the ages.

Donna loved to entertain and gather all whom she cared for, making every get together special. Through her beautifully set tables and her amazing cooking skills, all were welcomed. Along with her ability to recall every story and life event in great detail for all whom she held close, you could always count on her laughter through her story telling or just being with her.

Donna filled her life with joy. She was a cherished friend to many. She started a Bridge Club that grew into dear, life-long friendships. They not only played Bridge, but “The Little Honey’s” enjoyed slumber parties at cabins, getaways, and never missed the opportunity to help one another. Donna also enjoyed time with three of her other dear friends who explored and tried new things like skiing, snowmobiling and hiking, which led to many great discussions and laughter filled lunches. She cherished all of her friendships deeply. Her love for learning and exploring took her on wonderful travels. Her beloved times in Acapulco, travels through Europe and cruises with family were special highlights.

Above all, Donna was the heart of her family. She was a loving mother, wife and grandmother who took immense pride in creating a beautiful home for her family. She assured that we all knew her love and pride for us was always strong, and we her children, knew we could be or do any little thing that we could imagine.

Donna was born on the family farm in Spring Valley, WI to Ben and Inez Swenson. She experienced the loss of her father at the young age of 2 ½ years old. A hardship that shaped her appreciation for life, and a resilience that carried her through all of her days. She came from a hardworking and caring family. She had a happy, active childhood and was very close to her two sisters along with her cousins.

Donna graduated from Ellsworth High School, class of 1951. She went on to Beauty School and bought her own salon at the age of 21 in 1954 in River Falls, WI. She owned and operated her salon for over 54 years. This speaks to her strong spirit and business savvy. She gained many employees and clients through the years who also became friends. She loved her “salon girls.”

Donna enjoyed sports, especially the Green Bay Packers. She cherished the years her and Jerry and their dear friends had season tickets together. They didn’t miss a home game!

She enjoyed music, dancing and singing since she was a little girl. Donna’s children loved standing close as possible to her in church when hymns were sung. She naturally had a voice that carried so beautifully – it was glorious to try and sing along with her.

In retirement, Donna moved to Sun Lakes, AZ with her husband, Frank where they enjoyed their home on the golf course for 27 years.

Donna was grateful through all of her days for her life experiences, relationships, and family. She knew with all of her heart, and through her strong faith, that there was comfort in the glory of the love that was awaiting her in heaven.

Donna is proceeded in death by her parents, her loving husband, Frank Gombold and her sisters, Audrey Erickson and Beverly Gaard. She is survived by her children, Greg Carter of River Falls, WI and Cari Carter (Randy Bos) of Scottsdale, AZ. Grandchildren – Tara Carter, Samantha Carter, Jacob Bos and Samantha Bos. Her great grandchildren – Hayden and Hunter Schweiz, in addition to nieces and nephews, who she loved dearly.

A Celebration of Donna’s life was Friday, May 1, 2026 at 3 pm at Ezekiel Lutheran Church 202 S 2nd St, River Falls, WI.  Visitation also on Friday from 1-3 pm at the church.  Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery in River Falls.  Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

Click here to watch the recording of Donna’s service